Emergency Care
Here are some helpful tips to manage common orthodontic issues until our office can see you. Dental emergencies while wearing braces or other orthodontic appliances generally fall into two categories: injuries and broken orthodontic appliances.
What Should I Do If There’s an Injury to the Mouth During Treatment?
Occasionally, patients experience an injury to the mouth during orthodontic treatment. If your child (or you) has a direct injury to the mouth or teeth, follow these steps right away:
- Apply ice to the injured area immediately
- Contact your regular dentist as soon as possible
- Call our office as well
Usually, an x-ray of the involved tooth or teeth is needed to determine the extent of the injury.
If a tooth has been displaced, knocked out, or fractured, it is best to contact your family dentist first, since we may not have the necessary materials or anesthesia required to treat these injuries.
If orthodontic appliances are dislodged or displaced during the injury, we will need to replace or adjust them as soon as possible after you have seen your general dentist (depending on the patient’s comfort level).
What Should I Do If My Braces or Orthodontic Appliance Breaks?
Sometimes appliances may become broken or bent during orthodontic care. If you notice loose bands, loose brackets, broken wires, or poking wires, call our office to schedule an appointment during patient hours (unless you are in pain).
For your convenience and the convenience of scheduled patients, we are not able to handle orthodontic emergencies on a walk-in basis.
If you already have an adjustment appointment scheduled, please call us to explain the issue. This helps us plan enough time to repair the problem and make your visit more efficient.
How Can I Relieve Irritation From a Tie Wire?
If a tie wire is irritating your mouth, you can:
- Cover it with beeswax or sugarless chewing gum
Tuck it under the archwire using a blunt object like:
- A pencil eraser
- A Q-tip
These small adjustments can reduce discomfort until you’re able to come in.
What Should I Do If a Band or Bracket Feels Loose?
A loose band or bracket can usually be left in place until you are seen in our office.
If you notice a loose band or bracket:
- Call our office during patient hours
- We will schedule you to reattach the appliance if needed
What Should I Do If a Wire Is Poking or Broken?
A broken or poking archwire can often be managed at home temporarily by:
- Gently bending the wire inward using the eraser end of a pencil
- Cutting the wire carefully using nail clippers
If the problem still feels unresolved after trying this, call our office during patient hours so we can help and schedule a repair if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
We know you may have questions about orthodontic care and what to expect along the way. This section offers clear, straightforward answers to help you understand how treatment works and how we support you through each step. It’s an easy way to learn more before your first visit and feel confident about your smile journey.
Is a Loose Bracket an Emergency?
Not always. A loose bracket can often stay in place until your appointment, but you should call us so we can schedule a repair.
What If My Child Is in Pain From a Poking Wire?
Try covering the wire with wax or tucking it under the archwire. If pain continues, call our office so we can arrange care.
Can You Fix My Braces If a Tooth Is Knocked Out?
In cases of displaced, knocked out, or fractured teeth, you should contact your family dentist first. They may need to treat the injury before we adjust any orthodontic appliances.
Can I Come In Without an Appointment for an Orthodontic Emergency?
No. We are not able to handle emergencies on a walk-in basis. Please call during patient hours so we can schedule you.
Should I Call Even If I Have an Appointment Soon?
Yes. If you already have an upcoming adjustment visit, call us and explain the issue so we can plan enough time for repairs.